Every year in the United States, various strains of the flu arrive, causing illness to many Americans. The flu is quite debilitating, causing missed days of work and school, leaving its victims bedridden for days. Some of those flu sufferers will end up with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), leaving its victims critically ill, usually attached to life support, fighting for their lives. It is estimated that in some years, there have been as many as 12,250 from influenza-ARDS.

Before the flu strikes, remember to do what you can to keep yourself healthy. Eat healthy, exercise, drink plenty of water, and wash your hands often! And don’t forget to get your flu shot. Even though the efficacy of the flu shot varies from year to year, getting it might allow you, if you do get the flu, to keep your influenza more mild. It might allow you to avoid from getting more serious ill and avoiding the fate Kelly and these other Flu/ARDS Survivors endured. ARDS Foundation is fighting for every breath.

You can help spread awareness of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome by supporting The ARDS Foundation.

Helpful Resources about Flu and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS)

• Flu and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) »
• Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) from Endemic Influenza A/H1N1: Prehospital Management »
• The Role of ECLS in Influenza-Related ARDS »
• Contemporary Approaches to Influenza A and B | Prone Positioning in Influenza Pneumonia-Related ARDS? »
• Use of ECMO in the management of influenza-associated ARDS »